News

Can you help?
Thu, Mar 27 2008

When you rely on a wheelchair to get around, you want it to be in reasonable condition.

But that’s not the case for one of the people supported by the EW Tipping Foundation in Traralgon.

Steve, a resident at one of the Foundation’s shared supported accommodation houses, desperately needs a new electric wheelchair.

His current one, which was second hand when he received it, is too small and is causing damage to his posture.

Steve’s support worker, Emma Priest, says the chair also regularly needs repairs that Steve cannot afford on his disability pension.

Steve acquired a brain injury when he was hit by a car at four years of age – before the days of TAC compensation.

A new chair will cost close to $11,000, but government funding will only cover $8000, leaving Steve and his team to find $2800.

“For Steve, a good wheelchair will make all the difference because it means he’s not so reliant on other people,” said Emma.

Anyone who can assist with the costs of the chair is asked to phone Pauline Davies at the EW Tipping Foundation on 5622 7777.